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Utilizing advances in camera technology and electronic components while developing an optimized system architecture resulted in the development of a 2048 line by 2048 pixel by 10- bit high-speed image processor for digital fluoroscopy. The image processor is capable of image acquisition of progressive or interlaced 2 K images at 7.5 frames per second, as well as true progressive or interlaced 1 K by 1 K image acquisition at 30 frames per second. High- speed components, some specifically designed for the system, are applied to perform 2048 line by 2048 pixel image processing at the required speeds. A multimode high-resolution TV camera with a 2000 line Plumbicon tube is used and the input video samples at 40 MHz to provide 10-bit digital image data. High-speed BTL imaging busses, 2 K video RAMs, and multiple processors are used within the system architecture to provide required processing bandwidth. Images are compressed using 2 to 1 lossless compression, and optionally lossy compression, to increase system performance and provide a cost-effective method to achieve required image storage capacity. A high resolution monitor is used for image display and a standard digital interface for hardcopy is provided which is capable of 2 K image transfer. A VME based CPU with a real-time multitasking operating system is used for system control and image management. The system architecture provides multiple image processing busses designed to provide simultaneous acquisition, review, and hardcopy operations. Functionally, the system architecture supports image acquisition and digitization, real-time image processing and display, image storage to RAM, archival to a hard drive, and hardcopy of an image to a digital laser. In addition, interfaces wit the x-ray generator and user interface devices are provided. The system may be configured to support multiple fluoroscopic suites, display configurations, and user interface stations. The 2048 line by 2048 pixel high-speed image processor described has been implemented, released, and shipped. Systems being used for general fluoroscopy, interventional fluoroscopy, and angiographic procedures are producing clinical results. The results confirm the increased resolution, system performance, and multiprocessing capabilities not previously achieved in a cost effective digital image processor.
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